Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) vs. Keygeek Keygeek Raw
An in-depth look at the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) is praised for its crisp, light tactile feedback that provides a satisfying typing experience, along with a distinctive marbley sound profile. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw stands out for its innovative material blend, featuring Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon for a creamy yet lightweight feel. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) is described as clacky, marbly, high-pitched, and bouncy, the Keygeek Raw is labeled as textured, mild, and neutral. Choosing between these switches ultimately boils down to personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
59g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches offer distinct characteristics. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In comparison, the Keygeek Raw utilizes a Nylon & UPE blend for its top housing, offering a different sound experience exclusive to this switch. Both switches prioritize sound quality, but the choice between polycarbonate and the unique blend of nylon and UPE will result in different auditory experiences.
Moving to the bottom housing, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) utilizes nylon, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. Conversely, the Keygeek Raw employs a UMPE & Si blend for its bottom housing, offering a unique sound profile exclusive to this switch. While both bottom housings aim to absorb sound and create a more rounded sound, the different materials used in each switch will impact the overall typing experience in distinct ways.
In conclusion, while both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw switches prioritize sound quality, they achieve this through different housing materials. The Baby Kangaroo (V2) relies on polycarbonate and nylon for its top and bottom housings, respectively, while the Keygeek Raw features a unique blend of Nylon & UPE for the top housing and UMPE & Si for the bottom housing. These distinct material choices result in varied sound profiles and typing experiences, allowing users to choose the switch that best suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, we see that the Baby Kangaroo has a slightly heavier actuation force of 59 grams compared to the Keygeek Raw's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Keygeek Raw is slightly heavier at 57.5 grams compared to the Baby Kangaroo's 67 grams. This means that the Keygeek Raw may provide a slightly lighter typing experience overall. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter actuation force can be more comfortable for extended typing or gaming sessions, while a heavier bottom out force may provide a more substantial typing feel. In this case, the Keygeek Raw would be a lighter option compared to the Baby Kangaroo.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch and the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch have a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of both switches, it is clear that they provide a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Therefore, regardless of whether you choose the Gateron or Keygeek switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance while typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Baby Kangaroo (V2) for $5.50.
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is known for its clacky and marbly sound profile, providing a sharp and resonant experience when typing. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes without leaning towards any extreme characteristics. Depending on the user's preference for sound, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a more distinct and percussive typing experience compared to the more moderate sound of the Keygeek Raw.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch is known for its snappy and bouncy feel, offering a responsive and lively typing experience. Conversely, the Keygeek Raw linear switch provides a textured feel right out of the box, with a slightly scratchy sensation for users who prefer some friction in their keystrokes. While the Baby Kangaroo (V2) offers a polished and refined typing experience, the Keygeek Raw introduces a unique blend of materials for a creamy yet lightweight feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch excels in providing a sharp and responsive typing experience with its clacky sound and snappy feel. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw linear switch offers a more neutral and textured typing experience, suitable for a wider range of users. Both switches have their own unique qualities, and the choice between them ultimately depends on the user's preference for sound and feel. Whether you prefer a more distinct tactile sensation with a lively sound profile or a smoother, neutral typing experience with a touch of texture, both switches provide reliable performance in their respective categories.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Baby Kangaroo (V2) tactile switch or the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch, you should think about your preferences in terms of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a crisp, light switch-like tactility with a unique marbley sound profile, the Baby Kangaroo (V2) may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a creamy yet unexpectedly lightweight switch that arrives unlubricated for a slightly textured feel, the Keygeek Raw could be the better option. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired level of tactile feedback when making your decision between these two switches.
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